Scratch from hell!

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Aug 9, 2001 | 11:22 AM

hAudi from TX

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Scratch from hell!

Just found a 10" scratch by my gas tank lid. Any tips for touching it up or should I just get the whole thing repainted silver?

Aug 9, 2001 | 11:24 AM

bugbbq

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deep?

ouch.

Aug 9, 2001 | 11:25 AM

Flask

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I would touch-up or get it repainted whatever color your car is ;-)

Aug 9, 2001 | 11:27 AM

hAudi from TX

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Re: deep?

It doesn't look deliberate. Like someone was passing by with a purse or something. It's deep in the middle 4".

Aug 9, 2001 | 11:29 AM

bugbbq

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Audi should include spy cams so we can nab these bastards.

Who scratches another person's car and doesn't at least leave a note or something?

Aug 9, 2001 | 11:38 AM

hurricanesteve

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Procedure:

1st: Get some 3M clear coat safe rubbing compound and some Meguiar's #9 Swirl remover (or 3M hand glaze).

2nd: Starting with the swirl remover or hand glaze, follow directions and work on the scratch using back and forth motions and a clean cloth. Apply more and more pressure. See how much of the scratch you can remove. Some of it WILL disappear.

3rd: Use the rubbing compound on the sections that are still visible in the same manner. Use light pressure first, then progressively more and more pressure. This will remove more of the scratch.

4th: Revert to the swirl remover and go back over the whole scratch again.

5th: Assess the scratch again: how long is it and how much will need paint. You can do it yourself with touch up paint, but you will probably be able to tell if it's more than about 2" long (especially a metallic like silver). Decide if you can live with the remaining scratch.

6th: Either pay a pro detailer to touch it up (you will still be able to see it, but it will be better than you can do, if you use a reputable shop) OR take it to a body shop and have the whole section repainted (more $$$).

steve